MH questions ?

[airandsea]

I know that there has to be a post somewhere on swf that shows what wattage and such is good for a each tank but I can't find it on here. I am going to try and set up a small sps, lps and softies tank. Just a 10 gal to start with. Anyways, I was looking at a 175 watt MH. Is this enough, to much? Also, if you know links to learning more about lighting. Please post that. Thanks so much!!!!!

 

[fishfreak1242]

With a tank that small you would be able to use power compacts or T-5s. If you get 175w MH be prepared to have a very hot tank. I would go with T-5s. You don't have to replace the bulbs as often as MH and PCs, and they are much cooler than MH and probably less expensive.

 

[airandsea]

Would a t5 1 x 24w 10000k blue / 1 x 24w 10000k white be enough for the 10 gallon and possibly a 20 gal long???

 

[airandsea]

So when it comes down to wattage for T5's MH is there a certain wattage per gallon or wattage per inches deep???? Thanks for the help!!!!

 

[fishfreak1242]

Originally Posted by airandsea
http:///forum/post/2701718
Would a t5 1 x 24w 10000k blue / 1 x 24w 10000k white be enough for the 10 gallon and possibly a 20 gal long???
For a 10 gal sure, but a 20 gal is probably pushing it and I would do 2x24w of each.

 

[fishfreak1242]

Originally Posted by airandsea
http:///forum/post/2702021
So when it comes down to wattage for T5's MH is there a certain wattage per gallon or wattage per inches deep???? Thanks for the help!!!!
Go to the FAQ section and read Reef Lighting By Luke. I has some good stuff that will explain almost everything you need to know about lighting.

 

[yearofthenick]

I've heard of cooler running ballasts for MH's ... is this true? Apparently the newer ones do a better job of keeping cool. Does anyone know about this and is it new technology or are the sellers of this equipment just trying to get me to buy it?

 

[natclanwy]

The ballasts they are refering to are electronic ballasts and they have been around for a number of years. They are a better choice and do run much cooler than magnetic ballasts, but it does nothing for the temperature of the lights themselves which is where most of the heat comes from.